Kansas City Monarchs’ Australian center fielder once dreamed of becoming a rugby star

For most ballplayers, playing their first major-league game is the culmination of a lifelong dream. But that wasn’t quite the case for Aaron Whitefield.

Growing up in Brisbane, Australia, the Kansas City Monarchs center fielder was always gifted athletically. But he dreamed of being a rugby player rather than a baseball star.

That changed when Whitefield was finishing high school.

“I had some friends who were on the baseball side who were like, ‘Just come try it — what’s the big difference?’” Whitefield said.

Scouts noticed his exceptional speed and instincts, and Whitefield signed with the Minnesota Twins organization as an 18-year-old in 2015. Five years later, he made his major-league debut with the Twins.

“My life changed at 18 years old when I took that opportunity, and for the better,” he said.

Whitefield says baseball’s complexity drives his passion for the sport.

“There’s so many levels. One day you’re really good, the next it’s like you’ve never played before,” he said. “No one’s ever really figured out this game.”

Whitefield comes from a softball family. His younger sister Tamieka is on Australia’s national team. She batted leadoff and played second as the team clinched a spot in the World Cup Finals on Saturday.

The elder Whitefied has played in two World Baseball Classics, including the 2023 edition when Australia upset Korea to advance to the second round.

A two-time MVP in the Australian Baseball League, Whitefield has made two stints in the majors. He made the Twins’ opening day roster for the COVID-shortened 2020 season, appearing in three games. He returned in 2022 with the Los Angeles Angels, playing in five more.

Whitefield’s family has yet to see him play in the major leagues in person. Fans were barred from attending games in 2020, and his call-up two years later came with such short notice that they weren’t able to make the trip.

“I hope one day I get back there and my family is able to see me out on that field,” Whitefield said.

ALL-STAR ADDITION

Another Monarchs pitcher is heading to the All-Star Game. Workhorse reliever Grant Gavin is an injury replacement for the American Association’s West Division roster, the Monarchs announced Sunday.

He’s one of six Monarchs to make the roster for Tuesday’s game, including pitchers Jalen Miller and Trey Jeans, catcher Chris Herrmann, second baseman Justin Wylie and catcher/infielder Gavin Collins.

The American Association All-Star Game is set for 6:35 p.m. Tuesday at Franklin Field outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.